Pets left outside in extreme cold weather suffer the same adverse effects as humans: frostbite and hypothermia.

It's even worse for short-haired pets who have less protection against the elements in winter weather and for short-legged pets whose bellies and bodies are more likely to be in contact with snow-covered ground, according to the American Veterinary Medical Foundation.

In case you didn't know, it's also illegal to leave a pet outside in very cold weather in Indianapolis — defined as temperatures that drop below 20 degrees Fahrenheit or during a wind chill advisory. (It's also illegal to do so when temperatures rise above 90 degrees, during a heat advisory or during a tornado warning.)

For a first violation of Marion County's animal care ordinance, you face a fine of $25; for subsequent violations, the fine rises to $200.